Priest on leave as allegation probed

PARISHIONERS in a south Kilkenny village were stunned on Saturday when the local bishop turned up for evening Mass to tell them their parish priest was taking a leave of absence while an allegation of abuse against him was investigated.

It is understood Fr Peter Muldowney, parish priest of Mooncoin, asked for a period of leave from his ministry with immediate effect so that “a safeguarding matter” concerning him could be addressed.

The Bishop of Ossory, Dr Seamus Freeman, acceded to the request.